Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
6% cheaper
Birmingham is 6% more affordable than Murfreesboro. A $75,000 salary in Murfreesboro is equivalent to $70,161 in Birmingham.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Alabama salaries · Tennessee salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Birmingham has a housing index of 67 while Murfreesboro sits at 85 (national average = 100). The median home in Birmingham costs $165,000 compared to $325,000 in Murfreesboro, a difference of $160,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,000 in Birmingham versus $1,350 in Murfreesboro.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Birmingham scores 96 while Murfreesboro scores 95. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Birmingham (91) are lower than Murfreesboro (96).
Median household income in Birmingham is $38,178 compared to $55,200 in Murfreesboro. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Birmingham.
Amazon affiliate links